Reasons To Take A Holiday/Vacation

Holiday is the period I always looked forward to when I was a kid, especially the longest one which was end of the last term of a particular class, I felt so much excitement due the fun, long sleeps, holiday TV programs, long hours of play with friends that laid ahead...

What is Holidays/Vacation? 

A holiday or vacation is a leave of absence  from a regular occupation,or break from studies (period between terms), or a pleasure trip/ journey abroad usually for the purpose of recreation or tourism. They are often spent with family, friends or alone. It can mean either going somewhere or staying in at home, otherwise known as a "Staycation".

The custom of summer break is said to have been introduced by King William the Conqueror from Normandy where it facilitated the grape harvest. In those days, in the summer rich  families(Upper-Class) moved to a summer home, leaving their usual home vacant.

A lot of workers all over the world do not utilise their vacation days according to research reasons being that they do not want to loose their jobs, they are afraid not to fall behind in their work, lack of funds, some do not want to loose chances of being promoted, while some is due to what researchers call the "Martyr Complex"- they believe they are the only ones who can do their job and are do not want work to pile up on their desk when they return.

 Vacation in its real sense suppose to mean absence from office and work altogether but recent developments in Communication Technology such as the Internet, Mobile Phones, Instant Messaging, Presence Tracking, etc have begun to change the nature of vacation such that it means absence from the work place rather than temporary absence from work.

In most parts of the world such as Great Britain, North America and even Nigeria, workers telecommunicate while on vacation by making business calls rather than completely cutting off from work. According to research, in order to get the full benefits of taking a vacation, one has to be completely disconnected from both time out of the office as well as time off work.

People who were more involved with work while on vacation, were highly exhausted and disengaged from work when they returned, while those who were completely disconnected from work were happier, more active and satisfied even when they face heavy work loads.

To completely disengage from work while away,  try not to think about the things that annoy you at work, do not check emails unless it's very important, and limit the use of electronic gadgets. Remaining connected to work during the holidays is said to generate short-term business benefits but has long-term psychological consequences.

Benefits Of Taking A Holiday/Vacation

Embarking on a holiday alone or with family far or near, or at home (Staycation) has a good number of benefits to you and your work performance or studies and they include the following.

1. It Makes You Happier:

According to research, going on vacations increases Serotonin the hormone responsible for being happy. It regulates sleep cycles, Circadian rhythms and melatonin, decreases the production of cortisol, reduces tension and stress and leads to high energy levels. People who go on vacation are more satisfied with their lives because it improves mood.

2. It Makes You Healthier:

Vacations relieves stress and worries due to absence from work and regular daily life activities which were replaced with having fun. This repairs your body and refreshes your brain cells leading to less physical complains , reduced cholesterol levels and a healthier you.

3. Increases Work Productivity:

Employees who go on vacation have lower levels of burnout. According to research, lower levels of absenteeism was recorded except for ill health in companies after employees have taken a holiday compared to before they did.

For students, it offers them time to be free from school work load, leading to more sanity, refreshed brain, success and effectiveness.

4. Increases Clarity & Vision:

Relaxation and renewal can bring natural benefits such as new ideas, answers, or major insights which may become noticeable during or after your vacation.

5. Improves Relationships:

Being away with family members creates joy, better and stronger connections, as well as  build lasting memories. It can also strengthen marriages wether you travel alone or with your spouse leading to healthy relationships, travelling together can lead to increased intimacy and commitment,  as well as the opportunity to be alone and take a break from the normal role of spouse or parent routine. Some people even make new friends and find love when they go away.

A vacation does not need to be long or costly to be benefitial.  The idea is to  have fun and be disconnected from normal daily routine. So what are you waiting for? Take a break and go somewhere and do not forget to send me your photos, sourvenirs and even a post card. Happy Vacay!!!!!!

References

1. https:// thepip.com/en-eu/2015/07/the-importance-and-benefits-of-going-on-vacation/

2. healingthebody.ca/the-importance-of-taking-a-vacation/

3. traveltips.usatoday.com/benefits-taking-vacation-1755.html

4. advantagebehavioral.org/wellness.Php?nld=27

5. national.desertnews.com/article/2169/7-benefits-of-taking-vacation-time.html